Tokayev's article in The National Interest: the people are at the centre of the new Constitution

The American magazine The National Interest published an article by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the country's new constitution, Zakon.kz reported. The text is titled „A new constitution for a fair, strong and prosperous Kazakhstan“.

Tokayev said the recent constitutional referendum confirms Kazakhstan's determination to continue on the path of national development. The country is entering one of the most important stages of its political transformation - a change he said it has not seen in 35 years of independence. The referendum, the third in a row, showed the growing maturity of the political system and the readiness of citizens to actively decide the future of the state. The high voter turnout of 73.12 % and support for change of 87.15 % indicate a broad consensus in society.

The citizens approved a new constitution which, according to the President, reflects their genuine desire to live in a just and lawful state. It is based on the principles of law and order, the rigorous protection of human rights and freedoms, and the modernisation of society. It emphasises the development of education, science, technology, culture, ecology, volunteerism and patriotism. It also affirms the secular character of the state.

Tokayev stresses that the new constitution is a step towards meeting the expectations of future generations. It is intended to serve as a long-term „roadmap“, especially for young people. He was personally involved in its drafting and says that every formulation was carefully considered. The constitutional commission, made up of 129 representatives of society, discussed some 12 000 proposals from experts and NGOs over six months.

The document also reinforces the strategic vision of a political system based on the principles of „a strong president, an influential parliament and accountable government“. The abolition of the presidential quota is intended to strengthen the independence of the legislature. The move to a unicameral parliament (Kurultai) should increase the efficiency of the legislative process and the accountability of MPs. A new consultative body, the Halyk Kenesi (People's Council), is to increase citizen participation and promote social dialogue.

The reforms also affect the functioning of the state administration. For example, the post of vice-president is being introduced and time limits are being set for the performance of key functions, which should contribute to regular leadership turnover and greater stability of the system.

The citizen is at the centre of the new constitution. For the first time in history, the largest section of the document is devoted to the protection of human rights and freedoms. The protection of privacy, personal data and the inviolability of the home are strengthened. At the same time, the independence of the judiciary is increased and access to quality legal protection is ensured for all. Another important innovation is that future changes to the Constitution will have to be approved by the citizens in a national referendum.

The new constitution is also intended to strengthen the country's economic development. It improves the protection of property rights and intellectual property and sets clearer rules for business. It also provides for special legal regimes for fast-growing regions to encourage innovation and industrial growth.

According to Tokayev, Kazakhstan is today the most attractive destination for foreign direct investment in Central Asia, with nearly 70 % of all investment in the region. However, he said the country needs to continue reforms to accelerate the transition to a digital state and an innovation economy. The new constitution is also intended to send a clear signal to foreign partners about the country's long-term commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and international cooperation.

Over the past thirty years, Kazakhstan has made significant progress despite global challenges. It is one of the world's 50 largest economies, among the top 30 most digitised countries and has significant oil, gas and major mineral reserves. It is also developing renewable energy and agriculture. The country has also made a name for itself on the international stage - it chaired the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe and was a member of the UN Security Council.

Kazakhstan is currently developing new trade routes within the Central Corridor, strengthening regional cooperation and investing in modern technologies. It is also using the most powerful supercomputer in the region to develop its own large language model.

Moreover, the country has a young and increasingly educated population with growing human potential, including successful artists and athletes.

While the 1995 constitution laid the foundations for the country's independence, the new 2026 constitution, according to Tokayev, is the document of a mature and confident country looking to the future. The day on 15 March, when citizens approved the amendments, is now commemorated as Kazakhstan's Constitution Day.

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